Christmas Events for Kids in New York City (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

20 min read

The New York City area has 21 Christmas events for kids we could confirm for the 2026 season, from Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York on November 4 to The Origami Holiday Tree in New York, which runs through January 15. 10 of them are free, and every listing links straight to the host. It is one stop on our guide to Christmas events for kids in New York, part of our guide for every state.

The short version

  • 21 kids’ Christmas events confirmed in New York City for 2026, in New York, Jersey City, Bayonne, Eastchester, Freeport, Great Neck, Lakeview, Rockville Centre and Wantagh
  • First: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes, New York, November 4. Runs latest: The Origami Holiday Tree, New York, through January 15
  • Free: Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa, Holiday Tree Lighting, Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town, Nutcracker Baby Ballet, 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park, Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2), Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program), ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting and Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party
  • Checked on each host’s own page; each listing links straight to it
Watercolor illustration: Rally the corgi stands on a red train seat looking out at falling snow, a lit Christmas tree and a white dove. Text: Choo choo! The train starting could be heard. Hello cute white bird!
Rally watching the snow and a lit Christmas tree, from the pages of Rally Takes the Train.

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by city, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (sign-ups, ages, what is included). Looking for a Santa train instead? Those are on our New York Christmas train rides page.

New York City Christmas events for kids at a glance

Kids’ Christmas events
21 confirmed for 2026
Cities
New York, Jersey City, Bayonne, Eastchester, Freeport, Great Neck, Lakeview, Rockville Centre and Wantagh
Season
November 4, 2026 to January 15, 2027
Free events
10
Kinds of events
holiday show, holiday story time, Santa visit and tree lighting
Last checked

Plan your December

When each New York City Christmas event for kids happens

The first is Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York on November 4; the last runs to January 15. Each bar spans an event’s dates, not every hour in them, so check the host’s page for times.

Look inside the book

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Rally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. It makes a cozy bedtime story after a big day with Santa. Turn a few pages here.

Page 1 of 8

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

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Every page is real watercolor on paper, painted by hand by Leslie Dunn. Nothing in this book was made with AI.

Christmas events for kids in New York

12 confirmed events for kids in New York, including nearby Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens and Staten Island, soonest first.

New York: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes

Holiday showRadio City Rockettes · New York

Host
Radio City Rockettes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020
When
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (multiple performances daily, see calendar)
Cost
Ticketed, prices vary by performance
Ages
Children under 2 may sit on a lap without a ticket
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Christmas Spectacular runs from November 4, 2026 through January 4, 2027, with 230 performances, the most since the show began in 1933. The show lasts 90 minutes with no intermission, which is a manageable length for many younger children and keeps the outing to a predictable block of time.

Showtimes and seat prices vary by date, so families should pick a performance on the official calendar and buy tickets ahead. Children under 2 do not need their own ticket but must sit on a parent's or guardian's lap. Accessible and companion seating can be arranged through the Accessibility Services Department at 888-609-7599. The 2026 season adds new material to the show, and tickets are on sale now through the Rockettes website and Ticketmaster at 1-800-653-8000. Radio City Music Hall sits at Sixth Avenue and 50th Street in Midtown, close to several subway lines.

Parent tip: With no intermission, plan a restroom stop before the show starts. Lap seating is allowed only for children under 2.

See dates and details from Radio City Rockettes (opens in a new tab)

Bronx: Holiday Train Show

Holiday story timeNew York Botanical Garden · Bronx

Host
New York Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
New York Botanical Garden, Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 (near New York)
When
Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; extended evening hours 5 to 8 pm on Nov 27, 28, 29 and Dec 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 26 to 30, 2026 and Jan 2, 2027)
Cost
Timed tickets required, prices on NYBG ticket page; members free
Ages
All ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Holiday Train Show fills the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory with model trains running past close to 200 replicas of New York landmarks built from bark, pinecones, cinnamon sticks and other plant parts. On select evenings the conservatory stays open until 8 pm, with last entry at 7:15 pm and train conductor photo spots.

For younger kids, the Evergreen Express in the Everett Children's Adventure Garden runs daily from 10 am to 5 pm with a story trail based on the picture book Snow Birds, a Tree Top Walk, a small evergreen swag craft to take home, and big outdoor train toys to conduct. Sensory friendly viewings on Saturday, November 21, 2026 and Saturday, January 9, 2027 turn off videos and music and offer a quiet space. The garden is at 2900 Southern Blvd in the Bronx, and NYBG members get in free. The Evergreen Express area is included as part of the holiday visit, so families with younger children can split time between the conservatory and the children's garden.

Parent tip: Buy timed tickets in advance on the NYBG site. Pick a sensory friendly morning (Nov 21, 9 to 11 am) if your child prefers a quieter visit.

See dates and details from New York Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Brooklyn: Lightscape

Holiday lightsBrooklyn Botanic Garden · Brooklyn

Host
Brooklyn Botanic Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 990 Washington Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11225
When
Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (evenings)
Cost
Ticketed
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Lightscape turns Brooklyn Botanic Garden into a nighttime light trail for the holiday season, running from November 20, 2026 through January 3, 2027. The walk features a Cathedral Tunnel and a trail of about one million sparkling lights, along with installations by local artists and a new section of trail added this year.

Holiday music plays along the route and food treats are available, so families can make an evening of it. Hours and ticket prices are not listed on the tourism board page, so check the garden's ticketing before you go and pick an entry time that suits young walkers. The garden is at 990 Washington Avenue in Brooklyn, near Prospect Park, and the trail adds a new section this season, so returning families will find something different.

Parent tip: The trail is outdoors at night, so dress kids warmly and consider an early entry time for little ones.

See dates and details from Brooklyn Botanic Garden (opens in a new tab)

Bronx: Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

Holiday lightsBronx Zoo (Wildlife Conservation Society) · Bronx

Host
Bronx Zoo (Wildlife Conservation Society) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY 10460
When
Sat November 21, Sun November 22, Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Thu December 3, Fri December 4, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Thu December 10, Fri December 11, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Thu December 17, Fri December 18, Sat December 19, Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22, Wed December 23, Sat December 26, Sun December 27, Mon December 28, Tue December 29, Wed December 30, Thu December 31, Sat January 2 and Sun January 3, 2026, 4:30 pm
Cost
Ticketed, advance reservation required
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Holiday Lights runs on select nights from late November into early January. The lights and lantern trails switch on at 4:30 pm and the final park entry is 8 pm. Ticket holders can also enter the park earlier in the afternoon, starting at 1 pm, so families can see animals in daylight and stay for the glow after dark.

This season adds nighttime access to the Children's Zoo Farmyard, where kids can feed and pet gentle farm animals, plus late openings of World of Darkness and World of Reptiles. Other draws include a Freeze Zone with a snow tube slide and an ice themed throne, Wildlife Theater puppet shows and trivia, illuminated animal themed performers for photos, and a Holiday Train ride for kids. A sensory inclusive night is also planned for December 3.

Parent tip: Tickets must be reserved in advance at BronxZoo.com/holiday-lights/tickets. Arrive before the 8 pm final entry, or come at 1 pm to use the earlier daytime access included with your ticket.

See dates and details from Bronx Zoo (Wildlife Conservation Society) (opens in a new tab)

New York: The Origami Holiday Tree

Holiday eventAmerican Museum of Natural History · New York

Host
American Museum of Natural History (opens in a new tab)
Where
American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
When
Monday, November 23, 2026 to Friday, January 15, 2027 (during museum hours)
Cost
Free with museum admission
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Each holiday season the American Museum of Natural History puts up its Origami Holiday Tree, a 13 foot tree decorated with more than 1,000 handmade paper ornaments. This year's ornaments take their inspiration from the museum's sports exhibition, For the Win. The tree is on view from November 23, 2026 through January 15, 2027.

Seeing the tree is included with museum admission, so it fits easily into a regular museum visit. Kids who like spotting details can hunt for favorite shapes among the folded models, then continue on to the rest of the museum's halls. The museum is on Central Park West at 79th Street on the Upper West Side, and the tree stands in a corner of the Grand Gallery in the Futter Gallery on the first floor, so it is easy to fit into any route through the museum.

Parent tip: No separate ticket is needed for the tree; it is included with general museum admission.

See dates and details from American Museum of Natural History (opens in a new tab)

New York: George Balanchine's The Nutcracker

Holiday showNew York City Ballet · New York

Host
New York City Ballet (opens in a new tab)
Where
David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center, 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
When
Friday, November 27, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (see performance calendar)
Cost
Ticketed, every patron needs a ticket
Ages
Recommended for ages 5+
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

New York City Ballet's holiday tradition returns to the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center for a run from November 27, 2026 through January 2, 2027. The ballet lasts about two hours, and the company recommends it for ages 5 and up.

Every patron needs a ticket to enter, including small children who would sit on a lap, so buy a seat for each member of the family. For families with children who have sensory processing needs, the company lists a sensory friendly performance on January 3, 2027 at 1 pm, with adjusted lighting and sound levels. The run spans Thanksgiving weekend, the school winter break, and New Year's week, so there are options for most family schedules. Tickets are sold through the New York City Ballet box office and website.

Parent tip: All patrons, including lap children, must have a ticket. The sensory friendly performance on Jan 3, 2027 at 1 pm is an option for kids sensitive to light and sound.

See dates and details from New York City Ballet (opens in a new tab)

New York: Club Santa

Santa visitBryant Park Corporation · New York

Host
Bryant Park Corporation (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, Polar Lounge, Sixth Ave between 40th and 42nd St, New York, NY 10018
When
Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10 to 11:45 am
Cost
Ticketed, reservation required
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Club Santa is a reserved morning experience at the Bank of America Winter Village rink in Bryant Park. Ticket holders hang out with Santa, decorate cookies, sip complimentary hot cocoa, and make festive crafts in the heated Polar Lounge, then head out for an extended ice skating session.

Each booking includes skate rentals, help from the skate concierge with sizing, and semi-private access to the Polar Lounge. It runs only on two weekends, November 28 to 29 and December 5 to 6, with two entry times each morning at 10 am and 11:45 am. Everyone entering the Polar Lounge needs a Club Santa ticket. The rink is open rain or shine but may close in heavy rain, and you will be emailed if your session is cancelled.

Parent tip: Every guest entering the Polar Lounge needs a Club Santa ticket, so book one for each family member. Reserve early since there are only eight sessions.

See dates and details from Bryant Park Corporation (opens in a new tab)

Bronx: Holiday Tree Lighting

Tree lightingFreeNYC Parks · Bronx

Host
NYC Parks (opens in a new tab)
Where
Captain Roscoe Brown, Ph.D. Plaza, Aqueduct Walk, Aqueduct Ave & W 180th St, Bronx, NY 10453
When
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 4 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

NYC Parks is teaming up with Council Member Pierina Sanchez for a holiday tree lighting at Captain Roscoe Brown, Ph.D. Plaza on Aqueduct Walk in the Bronx. The listing describes it as a cherished community event and invites families and friends to come out and celebrate the start of the season together.

The event runs from 4 to 6 pm on a Wednesday, so it works well right after school, and it is free and open to the public with no registration listed. The plaza is outdoors at Aqueduct Avenue and West 180th Street, so bundle the kids up for a couple of hours in the December air. It is a simple, low-cost way to give little ones the fun of watching a tree light up close to home.

Parent tip: It is outdoors on a weekday afternoon, so dress warmly and plan to arrive close to 4 pm.

See dates and details from NYC Parks (opens in a new tab)

Bronx: Holiday Train Show Family Party

Model trainsNew York Botanical Garden · Bronx

Host
New York Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 (near New York)
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 to 9 pm
Cost
Ticketed packages, prices on NYBG ticket page
Ages
For children and grown-ups alike
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Family Party is a special ticketed evening built around the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden. Families get an exclusive viewing of the model train display, where trains run past landmark replicas made from plant materials.

The evening also includes hands-on activities with a STEAM angle, festive food and drinks, and live music. NYBG describes it as designed for children and grown-ups alike. Tickets are sold as packages through the garden's purchase page, and the Special Events Office handles questions at 914.579.1000 or familyparty@nybg.org. It takes place at the New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd in the Bronx. The Holiday Train Show itself runs from November 14, 2026 to January 10, 2027, so families who cannot make the party can still see the trains on another day.

Parent tip: Check the package options before buying, since prices are listed only on the ticket page.

See dates and details from New York Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Staten Island: Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town

Tree lightingFreeHistoric Richmond Town · Staten Island

Host
Historic Richmond Town (opens in a new tab)
Where
Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306
When
Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 to 6 pm
Cost
Free
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Historic Richmond Town, New York City's living history village on Staten Island, brings back its free annual community tree lighting. The hour opens with musical performances by local groups and a greeting from Santa Claus, and the tree is lit at 6 pm.

No ticket is needed and the event is free to all. Hot drinks and festive sweets will be for sale, so bring a little cash or a card for cocoa and treats. The celebration takes place outdoors in the historic village on Clarke Avenue, so warm coats, hats, and mittens are a must for the kids. It also makes a fitting preview of the village's Christmas in Historic Richmond Town weekend that follows on December 5 and 6.

Parent tip: Arrive before 6 pm for Santa's greeting and the lighting. Hot beverages and sweets are sold on site.

See dates and details from Historic Richmond Town (opens in a new tab)

Staten Island: Christmas in Historic Richmond Town

Santa visitHistoric Richmond Town · Staten Island

Host
Historic Richmond Town (opens in a new tab)
Where
Historic Richmond Town, 441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306
When
Sat December 5 (noon) and Sun December 6, 2026
Cost
Ticketed, see site
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

For one December weekend, Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island turns its living history village into a holiday wonderland for guests of all ages. Families can watch living history demonstrations, catch holiday performances, and shop for gifts, crafts, and keepsakes made by the village's historic tradespeople, such as the tinsmith and carpenter.

Kids will likely be most excited about the visit from Santa and his helpers and the old-fashioned horse-drawn carriage. There are also sweets, treats, and local food. The event page lists the weekend as Saturday, December 5 starting at noon through Sunday, December 6 ending at 4 pm, and the site links to ticket purchase, so check pricing before you go. Much of the village is outdoors, so dress for the weather.

Parent tip: Check the ticket link for pricing. The free tree lighting the evening before, Dec 4, pairs well with this weekend.

See dates and details from Historic Richmond Town (opens in a new tab)

Queens: Winter Wonder

Santa and Mrs. ClausQueens Botanical Garden · Queens

Host
Queens Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)
Where
Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 Main St, Queens, NY 11355
When
Sunday, December 6, 2026, 2 to 5 pm
Cost
$6 non-members (included with admission), free for members
Sign-up
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing marks the season with Winter Wonder, a Sunday afternoon gathering among the garden's evergreen displays. Families can snap photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, try hands-on crafts, listen to live music, and browse festive shopping. There is also a holiday bar with seasonal drinks for the grown-ups.

The afternoon wraps up with a lantern walk that leads to the garden's tree lighting, a nice finale for kids who can stay until the end. Entry is included with regular garden admission, listed at $6 for non-members, and members get in free. The garden notes that a ticket link is coming soon, so check the event page before you go and plan on dressing warmly for time outdoors.

Parent tip: Stay for the closing lantern walk to the tree lighting. Watch the event page for the ticket link, which the garden says is coming soon.

See dates and details from Queens Botanical Garden (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Jersey City

2 confirmed events for kids in Jersey City, soonest first.

Jersey City: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony

Tree lightingFreeJersey City Free Public Library · Jersey City

Host
Jersey City Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Jersey City Free Public Library, West Bergen Branch, 476 West Side Ave, Jersey City, NJ 07304 (near New York)
When
Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Jersey City Free Public Library's West Bergen Branch is holding a Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on the evening of December 3. The library promises holiday treats, live music, and the lighting of the tree, plus more festive touches, in a program listed for a general, all ages audience.

The celebration runs from 6 to 7:30 pm, which makes it a manageable weeknight outing for families with young children who still want to get home in time for bedtime. It appears in the library's Christmas program category and no fee or registration is mentioned. Because it is a neighborhood branch event, it tends to feel smaller and calmer than the big Manhattan tree lightings, which can be a plus with toddlers.

Parent tip: It is a weeknight evening program, so plan dinner around the 6 pm start.

See dates and details from Jersey City Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Jersey City: 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park

Holiday showFreeJersey City Free Public Library · Jersey City

Host
Jersey City Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Pavonia Branch Library and Hamilton Park Gazebo, 326 8th St, Jersey City, NJ 07302 (near New York)
When
Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
All ages
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

The Pavonia Branch of the Jersey City Free Public Library is hosting its fourth annual Holiday Extravaganza, a simple and festive late afternoon for all ages. Things start at 4 pm inside the branch with hot cocoa, then everyone heads over to the gazebo in Hamilton Park at 5 pm to sing favorite Christmas carols and holiday songs with library staff.

Lyrics are provided, so kids and grown-ups do not need to know every verse to join in. The library lists it in its children's events category and no fee or registration is mentioned. Since the caroling portion is outdoors at the gazebo, warm layers and gloves will make the half hour of singing more comfortable. Questions can go to the Pavonia Branch by email or phone.

Parent tip: Start at the branch at 4 pm for cocoa, then walk to the Hamilton Park gazebo for caroling at 5 pm. Lyrics are provided.

See dates and details from Jersey City Free Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bayonne

1 confirmed event for kids in Bayonne, soonest first.

Bayonne: ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting

Holiday story timeFreeBayonne Public Library · Bayonne

Host
Bayonne Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bayonne Public Library, Gallery, 697 Avenue C, Bayonne, NJ 07002 (near New York)
When
Saturday, December 19, 2026, 12:30 to 2 pm
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children 12 and under with their families
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Bayonne Public Library, the Boricua Community Building Center, and Nuyorican Books are teaming up for a bilingual story time celebrating Puerto Rican stories and holiday traditions. Children's author Samantha J. Garcia-Sherpa will read from her picture books in English and Spanish, introducing families to stories about Puerto Rican identity, language, and heritage.

After the reading, kids get to paint wooden holiday ornaments to bring home. The event is free and recommended for children 12 and under with their families. Advance registration is required, and the library asks that you register only the children attending, not the adults. Walk-ins will be welcomed if space allows. It takes place in the library's Gallery on a Saturday afternoon, so it fits easily into a weekend of holiday errands.

Parent tip: Register in advance and list only the children, not adults. Walk-ins are accepted only if space permits.

See dates and details from Bayonne Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Eastchester

1 confirmed event for kids in Eastchester, soonest first.

Eastchester: Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party

Holiday showFreeEastchester Public Library · Eastchester

Host
Eastchester Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Eastchester Public Library, Rashkoff Room, 11 Oak Ridge Pl, Eastchester, NY 10709 (near New York)
When
Monday, December 28, 2026, 11 to 11:30 am
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 6 months to 6 years
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Eastchester Public Library welcomes back Dawn Halasz, known to local families as Dawny Dew, for a winter holiday singing party during the week after Christmas. She turns children's songs, stories, and rhymes into interactive activities, and her puppets, including Sonny, Goo goo, and Gaga, join in the fun.

The program is designed for children ages 6 months to 6 years and lasts about half an hour in the Rashkoff Room downstairs, a good fit for short attention spans and nap schedules. The library asks that you register all attendees, adults included. With school out that week, it is a handy indoor outing for families with little ones who need to burn off some holiday energy after a busy Christmas weekend.

Parent tip: Register every attendee, including adults. The room is downstairs.

See dates and details from Eastchester Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Freeport

1 confirmed event for kids in Freeport, soonest first.

Freeport: Nutcracker Baby Ballet

Holiday story timeFreeFreeport Memorial Library · Freeport

Host
Freeport Memorial Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Freeport Memorial Library, 144 W Merrick Rd, Freeport, NY 11520 (near New York)
When
Monday, December 7, 2026, 10 to 10:45 am
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Ages 18 months to 3 years
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Freeport Memorial Library is hosting Baby Ballet Long Island for a Nutcracker themed movement class for the youngest dancers. After a warm up, toddlers learn a few dances from The Nutcracker set to the music, and there is indoor snow for the ballet's famous snowflake scene.

The class also includes a story time, and each child goes home with a craft at the end. It is meant for children ages 18 months to 3 years and runs 45 minutes on a Monday morning. Registration is required by calling the library or stopping by the Children's Room, and no fee is listed. It is a gentle first taste of the Nutcracker for toddlers who are too young for a full ballet performance.

Parent tip: Register by phone or in person at the Children's Room. Comfortable clothes for moving are a good idea.

See dates and details from Freeport Memorial Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Great Neck

1 confirmed event for kids in Great Neck, soonest first.

Christmas events for kids in Lakeview

1 confirmed event for kids in Lakeview, soonest first.

Lakeview: Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa

Santa visitFreeLakeview Public Library · Lakeview

Host
Lakeview Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Lakeview Public Library, 1120 Woodfield Rd, Lakeview, NY 11570 (near New York)
When
Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm
Cost
Free
Ages
Children
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Lakeview Public Library on Long Island invites children to sit down and write their letters to Santa together on December 1, and Santa is expected to stop by during the program. The session runs about an hour in Meeting Room 1 on the first floor, making it an easy after-school outing.

Kids who cannot make the live session can still write a letter at home and drop it in Santa's Mailbox at the library or hand it to staff by December 12, and letters can also be emailed to the library. The library says Santa might send a special reply letter, so be sure children include their full name and mailing address. The children's program is listed on the library's event calendar with no fee mentioned.

Parent tip: Include your child's full name and address on the letter so a reply can come back. Letters are due by December 12.

See dates and details from Lakeview Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Rockville Centre

1 confirmed event for kids in Rockville Centre, soonest first.

Rockville Centre: Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program)

Holiday showFreeRockville Centre Public Library · Rockville Centre

Host
Rockville Centre Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Rockville Centre Public Library, Helen Kraus Room, 221 N Village Ave, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 (near New York)
When
Thu December 17 (6 to 6:45 pm) and Tue December 22 (10:30 to 11:15 am), 2026
Cost
Free, registration required
Ages
Children's, all ages
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Rockville Centre Public Library is bringing in Reprise Music to lead a family sing-along of holiday favorites in the Helen Kraus Room. There are two chances to go: a Thursday evening session on December 17 and a morning session on Tuesday, December 22, which falls during the school holiday break for many families.

Each session runs 45 minutes and is listed as an all ages children's program. Registration is required and opens two weeks before each program, starting at 9 am on December 3 for the first date. When registering, include only the number of children attending. Children in grade 3 and under must have an adult in the building at all times, and the library notes it may photograph attendees.

Parent tip: Registration opens two weeks ahead (9 am Dec 3 for the Dec 17 session). Kids in grade 3 and under need an adult in the building.

See dates and details from Rockville Centre Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Wantagh

1 confirmed event for kids in Wantagh, soonest first.

Wantagh: Family Gingerbread House

Holiday craftsWantagh Public Library · Wantagh

Host
Wantagh Public Library (opens in a new tab)
Where
Wantagh Public Library, Community Room, 3285 Park Ave, Wantagh, NY 11793 (near New York)
When
Friday, December 11, 2026, 4 to 5:45 pm
Cost
$10 per family
Ages
Family program, best for ages 2 and up, with a child in grade 5 or younger
Sign-up
Required ahead of time
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked

Wantagh Public Library is hosting a Family Gingerbread House decorating class, with two 45 minute sessions on Friday, December 11. Each family receives one fully assembled gingerbread house plus icing and a variety of colorful candies, and works together to decorate it. All supplies are provided, and the library notes food programs may contain allergens.

The fee is $10 per family, paid by credit or debit card when you register, and unpaid registrations are deleted. You must register with a child in grade 5 or younger, and the program is best for ages 2 and up. Wantagh cardholders can register online starting 10 am on November 27, and out of district families can register starting 10 am on December 4.

Parent tip: Cardholder registration opens Nov 27 at 10 am and out of district registration Dec 4 at 10 am, online only, with payment by card.

See dates and details from Wantagh Public Library (opens in a new tab)

Looking further afield? Our New York Christmas events for kids guide lists every confirmed event in the state. The national search sorts every event by distance from your town.

A story for the drive home

A morning with Santa or an evening of holiday stories tends to end the same way: tired kids, a long drive and one more book before bed. Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents, and every page is painted by hand. If your family is spending December missing someone, it was written for that too. For the car, print our free corgi and train coloring pages.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolor corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor by Leslie Dunn. $16.99 on Amazon, ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

New York City Christmas events for kids: questions parents ask

What Christmas events for kids are in New York City in 2026?

We confirmed 21 Christmas events for kids in New York City for 2026 on each host’s own page: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York (November 4), Holiday Train Show in Bronx (November 14), Lightscape in Brooklyn (November 20), Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights in Bronx (November 21), The Origami Holiday Tree in New York (November 23), George Balanchine's The Nutcracker in New York (November 27), Club Santa in New York (November 28), Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa in Lakeview (December 1), Holiday Tree Lighting in Bronx (December 2), Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Jersey City (December 3), Holiday Train Show Family Party in Bronx (December 4), Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island (December 4), Christmas in Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island (December 5), Winter Wonder in Queens (December 6), Nutcracker Baby Ballet in Freeport (December 7), Family Gingerbread House in Wantagh (December 11), 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park in Jersey City (December 16), Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) in Great Neck (December 17), Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program) in Rockville Centre (December 17), ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting in Bayonne (December 19) and Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party in Eastchester (December 28). Every one is listed below with times, cost and a link to the host.

What Christmas events for kids are in New York, New York?

For families in and around New York, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes (Nov 4, 2026 to Jan 4, 2027, multiple shows daily, ticketed, prices vary by performance); Holiday Train Show (in Bronx, Nov 14, 2026 to Jan 10, 2027, select evenings until 8 pm, timed tickets required, prices on nybg ticket page; members free); Lightscape (in Brooklyn, Evenings, Nov 20, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027, ticketed); Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights (in Bronx, Select nights, Nov 21, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027, lights on at 4:30 pm, ticketed, advance reservation required); The Origami Holiday Tree (Daily during museum hours, Nov 23, 2026 to Jan 15, 2027, free with museum admission); George Balanchine's The Nutcracker (Nov 27, 2026 to Jan 2, 2027, ticketed, every patron needs a ticket); Club Santa (Sat and Sun, Nov 28 to 29 and Dec 5 to 6, 10 am or 11:45 am, ticketed, reservation required); Holiday Tree Lighting (in Bronx, Wed, Dec 2, 4 to 6 pm, free); Holiday Train Show Family Party (in Bronx, Fri, Dec 4, 5 to 9 pm, ticketed packages, prices on nybg ticket page); Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town (in Staten Island, Fri, Dec 4, 5 to 6 pm, free); Christmas in Historic Richmond Town (in Staten Island, Sat and Sun, Dec 5 to 6, from 12 pm Sat to 4 pm Sun, ticketed, see site); Winter Wonder (in Queens, Sun, Dec 6, 2 to 5 pm, $6 non-members (included with admission), free for members). Details and the host’s link for each are in the New York section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Jersey City, New York?

For families in and around Jersey City, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony (Thu, Dec 3, 6 to 7:30 pm, free); 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park (Wed, Dec 16, 4 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Jersey City section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Bayonne, New York?

For families in and around Bayonne, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting (Sat, Dec 19, 12:30 to 2 pm, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Bayonne section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Eastchester, New York?

For families in and around Eastchester, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party (Mon, Dec 28, 11 to 11:30 am, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Eastchester section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Freeport, New York?

For families in and around Freeport, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Nutcracker Baby Ballet (Mon, Dec 7, 10 to 10:45 am, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Freeport section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Great Neck, New York?

For families in and around Great Neck, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) (Thu, Dec 17, 4 to 4:30 pm, free, no registration). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Great Neck section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Lakeview, New York?

For families in and around Lakeview, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa (Tue, Dec 1, 4:30 to 5:30 pm, free). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Lakeview section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Rockville Centre, New York?

For families in and around Rockville Centre, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program) (Thu, Dec 17, 6 to 6:45 pm, and Tue, Dec 22, 10:30 to 11:15 am, free, registration required). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Rockville Centre section of this page.

What Christmas events for kids are in Wantagh, New York?

For families in and around Wantagh, the confirmed Christmas events for kids this season are: Family Gingerbread House (Fri, Dec 11, 4 to 4:45 pm or 5 to 5:45 pm, $10 per family). Details and the host’s link for each are in the Wantagh section of this page.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in New York City?

Yes. 10 of the 21 events here are free: Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa in Lakeview, Holiday Tree Lighting in Bronx, Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Jersey City, Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island, Nutcracker Baby Ballet in Freeport, 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park in Jersey City, Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) in Great Neck, Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program) in Rockville Centre, ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting in Bayonne and Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party in Eastchester. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa in New York City this December?

Santa appears at Club Santa in New York (November 28), Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa in Lakeview (December 1), Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island (December 4), Christmas in Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island (December 5) and Winter Wonder in Queens (December 6). Times and booking rules are in each event’s listing above.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in New York City?

Holiday story times on this page: Holiday Train Show in Bronx, Nutcracker Baby Ballet in Freeport, Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) in Great Neck and ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting in Bayonne. Library story times are usually free; story times with a meal or show are ticketed.

Which New York City Christmas events are best for toddlers?

These are aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers: Nutcracker Baby Ballet in Freeport (Ages 18 months to 3 years) and Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party in Eastchester (Ages 6 months to 6 years).

Are there kids' Christmas events in New York City on Christmas Eve or after Christmas?

Yes: Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York (through January 4), Holiday Train Show in Bronx (through January 10), Lightscape in Brooklyn (through January 3), Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights in Bronx (through January 3), The Origami Holiday Tree in New York (through January 15), George Balanchine's The Nutcracker in New York (through January 2) and Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party in Eastchester (through December 28).

How much is Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes in New York?

Ticketed, prices vary by performance. Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes is on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 to Monday, January 4, 2027 (multiple performances daily, see calendar) at Radio City Music Hall. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Train Show in Bronx?

Timed tickets required, prices on NYBG ticket page; members free. Holiday Train Show is on Saturday, November 14, 2026 to Sunday, January 10, 2027 (daily run; extended evening hours 5 to 8 pm on Nov 27, 28, 29 and Dec 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 20, 26 to 30, 2026 and Jan 2, 2027) at New York Botanical Garden, Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Lightscape in Brooklyn?

Ticketed. Lightscape is on Friday, November 20, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (evenings) at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights in Bronx?

Ticketed, advance reservation required. Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is on Sat November 21, Sun November 22, Fri November 27, Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Thu December 3, Fri December 4, Sat December 5, Sun December 6, Thu December 10, Fri December 11, Sat December 12, Sun December 13, Thu December 17, Fri December 18, Sat December 19, Sun December 20, Mon December 21, Tue December 22, Wed December 23, Sat December 26, Sun December 27, Mon December 28, Tue December 29, Wed December 30, Thu December 31, Sat January 2 and Sun January 3, 2026, 4:30 pm at Bronx Zoo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is The Origami Holiday Tree in New York?

Free with museum admission. The Origami Holiday Tree is on Monday, November 23, 2026 to Friday, January 15, 2027 (during museum hours) at American Museum of Natural History. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is George Balanchine's The Nutcracker in New York?

Ticketed, every patron needs a ticket. George Balanchine's The Nutcracker is on Friday, November 27, 2026 to Saturday, January 2, 2027 (see performance calendar) at David H. Koch Theater, Lincoln Center. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Club Santa in New York?

Ticketed, reservation required. Club Santa is on Sat November 28, Sun November 29, Sat December 5 and Sun December 6, 2026, 10 to 11:45 am at Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park, Polar Lounge. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa in Lakeview?

Free. Letters to Santa and Visit from Santa is on Tuesday, December 1, 2026, 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Lakeview Public Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Tree Lighting in Bronx?

Free. Holiday Tree Lighting is on Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 4 to 6 pm at Captain Roscoe Brown, Ph.D. Plaza, Aqueduct Walk. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony in Jersey City?

Free. Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony is on Thursday, December 3, 2026, 6 to 7:30 pm at Jersey City Free Public Library, West Bergen Branch. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Train Show Family Party in Bronx?

Ticketed packages, prices on NYBG ticket page. Holiday Train Show Family Party is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 to 9 pm at New York Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island?

Free. Tree Lighting at Historic Richmond Town is on Friday, December 4, 2026, 5 to 6 pm at Historic Richmond Town. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Christmas in Historic Richmond Town in Staten Island?

Ticketed, see site. Christmas in Historic Richmond Town is on Sat December 5 (noon) and Sun December 6, 2026 at Historic Richmond Town. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Winter Wonder in Queens?

$6 non-members (included with admission), free for members. Winter Wonder is on Sunday, December 6, 2026, 2 to 5 pm at Queens Botanical Garden. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Nutcracker Baby Ballet in Freeport?

Free, registration required. Nutcracker Baby Ballet is on Monday, December 7, 2026, 10 to 10:45 am at Freeport Memorial Library. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Family Gingerbread House in Wantagh?

$10 per family. Family Gingerbread House is on Friday, December 11, 2026, 4 to 5:45 pm at Wantagh Public Library, Community Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park in Jersey City?

Free. 4th Annual Holiday Extravaganza: Caroling in the Park is on Wednesday, December 16, 2026, 4 to 5:30 pm at Pavonia Branch Library and Hamilton Park Gazebo. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) in Great Neck?

Free, no registration. Gingerbread Man Cookie Storycraft (PreK-Gr. 2) is on Thursday, December 17, 2026, 4 to 4:30 pm at Great Neck Library, Main Building. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program) in Rockville Centre?

Free, registration required. Holiday Sing-a-Long (Family Program) is on Thu December 17 (6 to 6:45 pm) and Tue December 22 (10:30 to 11:15 am), 2026 at Rockville Centre Public Library, Helen Kraus Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting in Bayonne?

Free, registration required. ¡Buen Día! Bilingual Children's Story Time & Holiday Ornament Painting is on Saturday, December 19, 2026, 12:30 to 2 pm at Bayonne Public Library, Gallery. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

How much is Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party in Eastchester?

Free, registration required. Dawny Dew Holiday Singing Party is on Monday, December 28, 2026, 11 to 11:30 am at Eastchester Public Library, Rashkoff Room. Confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Are there Christmas train rides for kids in New York City?

Yes, but they have their own guide. Santa trains and holiday train rides are listed in our New York City Christmas train rides guide, so this page sticks to story times, Santa visits and other events off the rails.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 2, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

Kelsey Cecil
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